If you live or work in Palos Verdes Estates and need guidance on personal injury, real estate transactions, or lemon law claims, Law Republic APC is available to discuss your situation. Our firm focuses on helping residents in Los Angeles County navigate legal processes that affect recovery, property rights, and consumer protection. We provide clear explanations of your options and next steps, including how to preserve evidence, timeline expectations, and potential outcomes. This page outlines common scenarios, the terminology you will encounter, and practical guidance tailored to people dealing with injury, vehicle defects, or real estate disputes in the Palos Verdes Estates community.
Palos Verdes Estates is a coastal community with unique local considerations that influence legal matters, from traffic patterns affecting injury cases to residential property regulations. When an accident, buyer-seller dispute, or defective vehicle issue arises, the immediate actions you take can significantly affect your ability to secure fair compensation or a remedy. We aim to help community members understand their rights and the procedural steps involved. This introduction provides a foundation so you can make informed choices about seeking legal help, gathering documentation, and protecting your interests while living or working in Palos Verdes Estates.
Prompt legal guidance can preserve your rights and strengthen your position whether the issue is a personal injury claim, a real estate dispute, or pursuing a lemon law remedy for a defective vehicle. Addressing issues early helps secure critical evidence such as photos, witness statements, or inspection reports, and can prevent missed deadlines under California law. For property matters, understanding disclosure obligations and title concerns early can avoid costly delays. In vehicle defect matters, establishing the timeline of repairs and warranty interactions is essential. Timely advice also helps you evaluate settlement options and decide when further legal action is necessary to protect your interests in Palos Verdes Estates.
Law Republic APC provides focused representation to clients in Los Angeles County, including Palos Verdes Estates, on matters involving personal injury, real estate disputes, and lemon law claims. Our approach emphasizes clear communication, careful document review, and practical strategies tailored to each client’s circumstances. We work with local investigators, medical providers, and property professionals to assemble strong records and present claims effectively. The firm seeks fair resolutions through negotiation when appropriate, while preparing for litigation if necessary. Clients can expect attention to detail and a commitment to guiding them through complex procedures with responsiveness and strategic planning.
Personal injury, real estate, and lemon law matters each follow different legal pathways, yet they share the common need for organized documentation and timely action. Personal injury claims often require medical records, incident reports, and witness accounts that show causation and damages. Real estate disputes can involve contracts, disclosure forms, inspection reports, and title documentation that affect property rights. Lemon law claims center on a vehicle’s defect history, repair attempts, and warranty coverage records. Knowing which documents matter and how to preserve them improves the likelihood of a favorable outcome and ensures you meet statutory deadlines and procedural requirements in California courts.
Each type of case involves distinct remedies and standards of proof. In personal injury matters, compensation may address medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering, requiring proof of negligence and causation. Real estate resolutions can involve contract enforcement, rescission, or monetary damages when disclosures are inadequate or agreements are breached. Lemon law remedies may include a refund, replacement, or buyback when a vehicle cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts. Understanding these different outcomes helps Palos Verdes Estates residents weigh settlement offers and consider whether litigation or alternative dispute resolution is the best path forward.
To navigate these legal areas, it helps to know common terms you will encounter. Negligence refers to a failure to exercise reasonable care that causes harm. Disclosure obligations require sellers to inform buyers of known property defects. Warranty coverage defines the manufacturer or dealer obligations for vehicle repairs under lemon law rules. Damages describe the monetary compensation for losses such as medical expenses, repair costs, or diminished value. Statutes of limitation set time limits to bring a claim in California. Familiarity with these terms empowers Palos Verdes Estates residents to better understand communications, documents, and legal advice related to their case.
Most successful claims involve a clear factual record, supporting documents, and a plan for timely legal steps. For personal injury, this means medical evaluations, incident reports, and evidence of fault. Real estate matters require contract review, inspection records, and communications between buyer and seller. Lemon law cases need a repair and service history, warranty documents, and documentation of communications with the dealer or manufacturer. The typical process includes an initial consultation, evidence gathering, demand or notice letters, negotiation, and if necessary, litigation. Each step demands attention to deadlines and local rules that affect how claims proceed in Los Angeles County.
This glossary highlights terms you may see when handling a personal injury, real estate, or lemon law matter. Understanding these items helps you follow case progress and contributes to stronger communication with attorneys, insurers, and other parties. Use the definitions below as a quick reference for common phrases that appear in demand letters, settlement negotiations, and court filings. If a term is unclear in your case, ask for clarification so you can make informed decisions about evidence collection, settlement evaluation, and procedural choices that affect the outcome in your Palos Verdes Estates matter.
Negligence describes a legal theory used in personal injury cases where a person or entity fails to exercise reasonable care, causing harm to another. To prove negligence, a claimant typically must show that the defendant owed a duty of care, breached that duty, caused the injury, and resulted in measurable damages. Evidence includes witness statements, photographs, expert reports, and medical records that link the breach to the injury. In Palos Verdes Estates incidents, local traffic patterns, property maintenance, and driver conduct are often relevant to establishing whether negligence occurred in a particular situation.
A breach of contract occurs when one party fails to fulfill obligations outlined in a written or verbal agreement, such as a real estate purchase contract or a repair agreement. In real estate contexts, breaches can involve failure to deliver clear title, inadequate disclosures, or not completing agreed repairs. Remedies may include specific performance, monetary damages, or rescission of the contract, depending on the circumstances. Documentation like contracts, emails, inspection reports, and notices are important to show what was promised and how the agreement was not honored by the other party in Palos Verdes Estates transactions.
Disclosure refers to the legal obligation for sellers to reveal known issues about a property that could affect the buyer’s decision to purchase or the property’s value. California law requires sellers to complete specific disclosure forms detailing defects, environmental hazards, or past repairs. Failure to provide required information may entitle the buyer to damages or contract remedies. Collecting inspection reports, repair invoices, and written seller statements helps evaluate whether disclosures were complete and accurate in a Palos Verdes Estates property transaction.
Lemon law refers to consumer protection statutes that provide remedies when a new or used vehicle has persistent defects that impair its use, value, or safety and cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts. Success in a lemon law claim depends on repair records, warranty coverage, and the severity of defects. Remedies may include a refund, vehicle replacement, or monetary compensation for the diminished value. Documenting every repair visit, service communication, and manufacturer correspondence is essential to establish a timeline and support a claim under California lemon law provisions.
When addressing a legal issue, you can choose a narrowly targeted approach focused on a single task or a broader, comprehensive strategy covering multiple potential issues. A limited approach might involve document review, a demand letter, or a single negotiation session intended to resolve a discrete matter quickly. A comprehensive approach involves a full assessment of related claims, parallel remedies, and contingency planning, which may include deeper evidence gathering, expert consultation, and preparing for court. The right choice depends on the complexity of your case, the stakes involved, and whether unresolved issues could later undermine a partial resolution in Palos Verdes Estates.
A limited approach can be appropriate for straightforward disputes involving minor property repairs, small contract discrepancies, or routine warranty issues where the financial stakes are relatively low and liability is clear. In these situations, a targeted review of key documents and a well-crafted demand letter to the other party or insurer may lead to a prompt resolution. This approach can save time and expense when the goal is a quick corrective action or reimbursement for modest costs. Residents of Palos Verdes Estates with simple, well-documented claims often benefit from a focused, efficient legal effort that seeks fair resolution without extensive litigation.
If liability for an injury is obvious and damages are limited to short-term medical care and modest lost wages, a limited approach emphasizing settlement negotiation may be suitable. This path typically focuses on gathering core medical records, documenting the incident, and engaging in settlement talks with an insurer. It is intended to achieve a fair payout without the time and costs associated with a full litigation strategy. For Palos Verdes Estates residents with minor injuries and clear fault, a concentrated effort can resolve the claim efficiently while still protecting legal rights and ensuring proper compensation for recoverable losses.
A comprehensive legal approach is often needed when cases involve complex factual disputes, multiple claims, or potential long-term consequences such as major medical care, significant property value issues, or ongoing vehicle defects. These matters require fuller investigation, coordination with medical and technical professionals, and careful preservation of evidence. A broad strategy prepares for multiple possible outcomes and protects against future claims that could arise from unresolved issues. For Palos Verdes Estates residents facing high-stakes situations, this thorough approach better aligns with long-term objectives and helps ensure all legal avenues are considered and pursued as necessary.
Comprehensive representation is also important when strict procedural rules or short statutes of limitation apply, as missing a deadline can forfeit legal rights. Handling multiple filings, responding to discovery, and meeting court timelines requires methodical case management. For instance, property defects and warranty claims may have overlapping notice requirements and time limits that must be met to preserve remedies. A thorough approach ensures all notices are served properly, records are compiled systematically, and deadlines are tracked to protect remedies for residents of Palos Verdes Estates while advancing claims in an organized manner.
A comprehensive approach offers the advantage of coordinated strategy across related claims, reducing the risk that resolving one issue will leave others unresolved. It allows for a complete assessment of damages, including future medical needs, diminished property values, and ongoing vehicle problems. Coordinated evidence gathering strengthens negotiating positions and helps the parties see the full scope of potential liability and remedies. For Palos Verdes Estates residents, this approach can produce more durable outcomes that address the root causes of disputes and provide clarity on long-term financial and legal implications.
Comprehensive representation also enables better preparation for litigation when necessary, including identification of credible witnesses, coordination with medical providers, and retention of technical advisors for complex defects or property issues. This thorough preparation can improve settlement leverage and streamline court proceedings should a case proceed to trial. Additionally, a broad strategy includes proactive risk management, such as preserving evidence and tracking deadlines that might otherwise be overlooked. Residents of Palos Verdes Estates with multi-faceted legal needs commonly find that a comprehensive plan reduces surprises and increases the likelihood of a favorable long-term result.
A comprehensive strategy produces a stronger case presentation by collecting complete documentation, coordinating testimony, and building a clear narrative that ties facts to legal claims. This can be particularly important for complex personal injury matters where causation and future care must be demonstrated, for real estate disputes involving title or disclosure questions, and for lemon law claims that require a detailed repair history. A well-prepared case improves negotiation leverage with insurers or opposing parties and enhances credibility in court, increasing the chances of a fair and thorough resolution for Palos Verdes Estates clients.
By addressing all related legal issues together, a comprehensive approach seeks remedies that resolve the full scope of harm and reduce the likelihood of future disputes. This can include negotiating settlements that account for future medical needs, obtaining clear title or contractual relief in property cases, or pursuing appropriate lemon law remedies that address both repair history and consumer losses. For Palos Verdes Estates residents, this approach often results in outcomes that are more stable and protective over time, rather than partial resolutions that leave residual problems unresolved.
After an incident, preserving evidence promptly improves the chance of a successful outcome. Take clear photographs of the scene, property damage, or vehicle defects and keep records of all repair orders, inspection reports, and communication with other parties. Retain medical receipts and treatment notes, and keep a journal of symptoms and recovery steps. For real estate matters, store inspection reports, seller disclosures, and correspondence in a secure folder. Early documentation provides a factual foundation that supports later claims, helps establish timelines, and reduces disputes about what occurred in Palos Verdes Estates.
Honesty and full cooperation when assembling documents strengthens your position and avoids surprises later. Provide complete copies of repair invoices, medical records, inspection reports, and all communications related to the dispute. If you have relevant photographs or receipts, include them in the file. Clear, organized documentation builds credibility with insurers and opposing parties and helps your legal team evaluate options quickly. Providing timely information allows for more efficient case handling and reduces the likelihood of procedural delays for clients in Palos Verdes Estates who need prompt resolution.
Legal assistance is appropriate when the consequences of an unresolved issue include significant medical expenses, loss of property value, ongoing vehicle problems, or uncertainty about legal rights. Professional guidance helps you understand what compensation or remedies are reasonable, how to comply with notice requirements and deadlines, and when negotiation or litigation is necessary. For Palos Verdes Estates residents, a local perspective on how regional courts and insurers operate can be valuable when evaluating offers and deciding on the next steps. Legal help can also streamline communication with insurers, sellers, or manufacturers and reduce stress during a complicated dispute.
You should also consider legal help if opposing parties or their insurers are unresponsive, deny responsibility, or make low settlement offers that do not cover anticipated future losses. Professionals can assess the strengths and weaknesses of your claim, quantify damages including future costs, and recommend a course of action designed to protect your interests. In situations where multiple issues intersect—such as property damage combined with personal injury or recurring vehicle defects—a coordinated legal approach often yields a more complete and lasting solution for individuals and families in Palos Verdes Estates.
Common circumstances prompting legal assistance include car collisions with serious injuries, construction or maintenance defects affecting home value, undisclosed property problems discovered after purchase, repeated un-resolved vehicle mechanical failures, and disputes over repairs or warranties. These situations can involve complex interactions between insurance coverage, contractual obligations, and statutory rights. When you encounter any of these issues, prompt documentation and advice can preserve options and clarify potential remedies available under California law for people who live or own property in Palos Verdes Estates.
Motor vehicle collisions that result in injury often require immediate attention to medical care, documentation, and insurer notification. Recording the scene, obtaining police reports, and seeking prompt medical evaluation help establish the facts necessary for a personal injury claim. It is important to track medical treatments and associated costs for future recovery of damages. In Palos Verdes Estates, local traffic conditions and roadway features can be relevant when determining causation and liability, so gathering as much information as possible at the outset is beneficial for pursuing a fair resolution.
Discovering defects after closing on a property can lead to disputes over whether the seller fulfilled disclosure obligations or whether repairs were misrepresented. Homebuyers should preserve inspection reports, photos, and any written communications that address defects or prior repairs. Identifying when a defect existed and whether proper disclosure was provided are central issues in these claims. For Palos Verdes Estates transactions, local building practices and coastal environmental factors may also affect property conditions and disclosure expectations, making careful documentation and timely legal review critical for those facing post-closing problems.
When a vehicle continues to experience the same defect despite multiple repair attempts, consumers may be entitled to relief under California lemon law. Maintaining a detailed record of each repair visit, diagnostic findings, and communications with the dealer or manufacturer helps establish a pattern of unsuccessful repairs. This documentation is essential to show that the defect substantially impairs the vehicle’s use or safety. For Palos Verdes Estates residents, consistent record-keeping and timely assertion of rights improve the ability to pursue remedies such as a replacement, buyback, or monetary compensation where appropriate under applicable law.
If you need assistance with a personal injury, real estate issue, or lemon law matter in Palos Verdes Estates, Law Republic APC can review your situation and explain potential next steps. We offer an initial evaluation to identify relevant documents, deadlines, and likely remedies. Our goal is to provide practical advice on how to preserve rights, communicate with insurers or opposing parties, and choose a pathway that aligns with your goals. For residents seeking local representation, we focus on clear communication and thorough preparation to support the best possible outcome given the facts and applicable California law.
Clients turn to Law Republic APC for dedicated attention to personal injury, real estate, and lemon law matters that affect Palos Verdes Estates residents. We place emphasis on listening to each client’s priorities, identifying practical solutions, and developing a strategy that aligns with their objectives. The firm coordinates with medical providers, property professionals, and service centers to assemble strong documentation. We focus on achieving outcomes that address both the immediate needs and potential future consequences of an incident, whether that involves health care planning, property remedies, or consumer protection claims under applicable California rules.
Our approach includes clear explanations about expected timelines, possible outcomes, and the documentation needed to support a claim. We aim to keep clients informed throughout the process, making recommendations about negotiation or litigation based on the strength of the record and the client’s goals. This transparency helps Palos Verdes Estates residents make informed choices about whether to pursue settlement or prepare for court, and ensures that important procedural steps and deadlines are handled efficiently to protect legal rights and remedies.
We also emphasize practical steps clients can take immediately after an incident to preserve evidence and position their case for a favorable resolution. This includes guidance on documenting injuries and damage, communicating with opposing parties in a way that protects legal interests, and obtaining necessary records promptly. For those in Palos Verdes Estates, local knowledge of courts and administrative processes helps us advise on the most effective next steps while minimizing unnecessary delay or expense.
Our process begins with a thorough initial intake to identify key facts, documents, and statutory deadlines. We then gather evidence, consult with relevant professionals when needed, and prepare a demand or notice to the responsible parties. If negotiation resolves the matter fairly, we complete settlement documentation and ensure implementation. If litigation is necessary, we prepare court filings, conduct discovery, and represent clients through trial or alternative dispute resolution. Throughout, we prioritize timely communication, organized documentation, and strategies tailored to the client’s objectives in Palos Verdes Estates.
The first step involves evaluating the facts and collecting the documents that establish liability and damages. This includes incident reports, medical records, repair invoices, contracts, disclosures, and witness statements. We identify any immediate deadlines, advise on preserving physical and digital evidence, and recommend actions to prevent further harm. For Palos Verdes Estates residents, gathering localized information such as property inspection details or repair shop records is part of this phase. A comprehensive file helps determine legal theories and the most promising avenues for resolution.
During the initial consultation, we review the documents you provide, summarize your legal options, and outline recommended next steps. We ask targeted questions to clarify timelines and the sequence of events and identify additional records that will be helpful. This stage narrows the case focus, highlights immediate priorities, and ensures that preservation steps are taken quickly. For residents of Palos Verdes Estates, this initial review often includes a walkthrough of local records and any municipal documents relevant to the property or incident.
Early actions include preserving physical evidence, obtaining medical records, and securing repair invoices or inspection reports. We may send preservation notices or demand letters to prevent the loss of important documentation. Timely action is particularly important when warranty claims or disclosure issues have strict notice requirements. These steps form the foundation for later negotiation or litigation, and they improve the ability to quantify damages and assert rights effectively for Palos Verdes Estates clients.
After assembling the key evidence, we prepare a demand package or formal notice that outlines the facts, legal basis, and requested remedies. We then engage opposing parties or insurers in negotiation to pursue a settlement that fairly addresses damages. Alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation, may be used to facilitate a resolution without trial. Throughout this phase, we evaluate offers, advise on their adequacy relative to potential outcomes at trial, and recommend whether to accept a proposed settlement or proceed to litigation based on Palos Verdes Estates client goals and the strength of the claim.
Settlement negotiations focus on presenting the assembled evidence and a realistic appraisal of damages while maintaining a firm posture on critical issues. We prepare demand letters with clear documentation of medical costs, repair invoices, or diminished property value and outline legal grounds for recovery. Negotiation includes communicating with insurers and opposing counsel, evaluating counteroffers, and recommending settlement terms that protect long-term interests. For Palos Verdes Estates residents, achieving a settlement that accounts for future needs and potential costs is an important objective during this stage.
Mediation or other forms of alternative dispute resolution provide an opportunity to reach a negotiated result with the assistance of a neutral facilitator. These processes can be faster and less costly than trial while still producing durable outcomes when both sides are willing to engage in meaningful negotiation. Preparation for mediation includes summarizing key evidence, developing settlement parameters, and identifying acceptable terms. For many Palos Verdes Estates matters, mediation is a valuable step that can resolve disputes efficiently while avoiding prolonged court proceedings.
If negotiations or mediation do not produce a fair resolution, preparing for litigation becomes necessary. This phase includes serving pleadings, conducting discovery, deposing witnesses, and preparing trial exhibits and expert testimony when applicable. Trial preparation focuses on organizing the evidentiary record and developing a persuasive presentation of liability and damages. Although many cases settle before trial, thorough preparation increases settlement leverage and positions clients for a successful outcome whether in court or at the negotiating table for Palos Verdes Estates matters.
Filing a lawsuit begins formal proceedings and triggers discovery, where both sides exchange documents, requests, and testimony to develop their cases. Discovery can illuminate weaknesses in opposing positions and help quantify damages. This process requires careful management of deadlines, responses, and preservation obligations. For residents involved in complex personal injury, real estate, or lemon law matters, discovery often includes subpoenas for records, depositions of relevant witnesses, and expert written reports to support technical issues or valuation claims.
Trial preparation encompasses finalizing witness lists, exhibits, and demonstrative materials, and practicing direct and cross-examinations. Building a clear narrative supported by documents and testimony is essential to persuading a judge or jury. During this stage, strategy focuses on presenting the strongest evidence of liability and damages while countering opposing arguments. For Palos Verdes Estates clients, trial readiness also ensures that settlement discussions are informed by a realistic assessment of trial risks and potential outcomes, improving the ability to secure a fair resolution.
Begin by seeking necessary medical attention and documenting your injuries, then preserve evidence such as photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and witness contact information. Obtain a police report if applicable and keep records of all medical visits and treatment notes. Early documentation and medical records are key to establishing causation and the extent of injury. Next, contact Law Republic APC for an initial case review to identify deadlines and necessary documents. We will help you gather records, assess liability, and communicate with insurers. Timely action helps preserve your ability to recover damages and positions you for effective negotiation or litigation in Palos Verdes Estates.
If you discover undisclosed defects after closing, gather all inspection reports, seller disclosures, repair invoices, and correspondence related to the property. Document the defect with photographs and expert assessments if necessary. These records are essential to show what was known, when it was discovered, and the nature of any misrepresentation or non-disclosure. After documentation, seek a legal review to determine potential remedies such as rescission, damages, or contract enforcement. Timing matters, so consult promptly to understand statutory requirements and to take actions that preserve your rights in Palos Verdes Estates transactions.
A vehicle may qualify for a lemon law claim when it has a significant defect that impairs use, value, or safety and cannot be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts under the manufacturer’s warranty. Key supporting items include repair orders, service records, and written communications with the dealer or manufacturer documenting unsuccessful repairs. Retain all records of repair visits and correspondence, and consult to evaluate whether the repair history meets California’s criteria for a claim. Early tracking of repair attempts and clear documentation increase the likelihood of obtaining an appropriate remedy such as reimbursement or buyback.
Statutes of limitation vary by case type: personal injury claims typically have strict deadlines, and real estate or contract disputes can have different time frames depending on the nature of the claim. These deadlines can be affected by when the injury or defect was discovered, making prompt consultation important to preserve rights. If you suspect you have a claim, gather documentation and seek a legal review as soon as possible. Timely assessment helps ensure that necessary notices are given and that lawsuits are filed within applicable time limits for Palos Verdes Estates residents.
Yes, you can and should attempt to resolve vehicle repair issues with the dealer before pursuing a formal lemon law claim. Keep detailed records of each repair visit, diagnostic notes, and any written offers or communications. A clear paper trail is essential if the issue persists and further action becomes necessary. If the dealer does not resolve the problem after reasonable repair attempts, your documented repair history will support a lemon law claim. Early negotiation is appropriate, but prepare to pursue legal remedies if fair resolution is not achieved for Palos Verdes Estates vehicle owners.
Damages in real estate disputes can include the cost of necessary repairs, diminution in property value, rescission of the purchase contract, and reasonable expenses incurred due to the issue. The specific remedies depend on the contract terms, the nature of the defect, and what disclosures were made at the time of sale. Documentation such as inspection reports, repair estimates, and communications can support a claim for appropriate monetary relief or other remedies. A legal review helps identify which damages are recoverable under California law and the best way to pursue them for Palos Verdes Estates cases.
Many cases resolve through settlement or alternative dispute resolution, which can save time and expense compared with trial. Negotiation and mediation allow parties to reach a mutually acceptable outcome when both sides are willing to engage in good faith discussions and when the evidence points toward settlement. However, some matters require litigation to secure full relief, especially when liability is disputed or a fair settlement cannot be reached. Preparing for trial also strengthens settlement leverage, and we will advise you on the most appropriate strategy for your Palos Verdes Estates matter based on the facts.
Costs vary depending on the complexity of the case, the need for expert reports, and whether the matter proceeds to litigation. Many personal injury and lemon law matters are handled on a contingency or outcome-based arrangement, subject to a detailed agreement, while real estate and contract matters may use other fee structures. We will discuss fee options and anticipated costs during the initial consultation. Understanding likely expenses, including court fees, expert fees, and discovery costs, helps clients make informed choices about pursuing claims. We aim to provide clear cost estimates and transparency about how fees are structured for Palos Verdes Estates clients.
Bring any documents that relate to the incident or dispute, including contracts, inspection reports, repair invoices, medical records, police or incident reports, photographs, warranty information, and correspondence with the other party or insurers. A chronological list of events and contacts is also helpful in the initial meeting. Having these materials available allows for an efficient review of the issues and helps identify immediate next steps. If you lack certain records, we will advise on how to obtain them and what interim actions to take to preserve your rights in Palos Verdes Estates.
The timeline from consultation to resolution depends on the case type, complexity, and willingness of opposing parties to negotiate. Some matters resolve within weeks through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution, while others may take many months or longer if litigation is required. Factors like discovery complexity and expert evaluations can extend timelines. We provide an estimated schedule after reviewing case specifics and help manage expectations by explaining likely milestones and decision points. Ongoing communication ensures clients in Palos Verdes Estates understand progress and options at each stage of their matter.
